Two explosions at Brussels Airport and another at Maalbeck Metro Station in the capital have resulted in numerous casualties. Latest update says that death toll has risen to 34 with 20 people killed in the blast on a Metro train and 14 in explosions at the airport. Some 151 others are also believed to have been injured.
Catholic bishops of Belgium have extended their deepest sympathies and condolences to those affected by the tragic events at the Zaventem airport and the center of Brussels,” a statement said.
“They share the anguish of thousands of travelers and their families, aviation professionals and rescue teams. They ask everyone to pray for the victims in this new dramatic situation.”
The statement added that airport chaplains are available to “provide spiritual support” to all who need it.
The attacks come four days after Salah Abdeslam, the main suspect in last year’s Paris attacks, was seized in Brussels.
Prime Minister Charles Michel called the latest attacks “blind, violent and cowardly”, adding: “This is a day of tragedy, a black day… I would like to call on everyone to show calmness and solidarity”.
The Bishop of Portsmouth, Philip Egan sympathized with families affected by the tragedy, offering his condolences and prayers in a tweet wrote:
“Great sadness in Brussels.”
“May God grant eternal life to those who have died, and health and well being to all the injured and afflicted,” the tweet added.
Also, Archbishop Eamon Martin of Armagh, urged prayers for those affected by the bombings in a tweet saying,
“Stop and pray for all caught up in the Brussels bombings.”
Prime Minister David Cameron has offered his condolences and security support to the the Belgian people saying, “we absolutely stand” with Belgium
He added that Britain “will do everything we can to help.”
